Jacob Shaffelburg shone in Canada’s 2-0 victory over Peru on Saturday, scoring both goals at CF Montréal's Stade Saputo. This marked his first goals for the national team in nearly two years, showcasing his confidence after a challenging season.
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“I haven't scored at all this year, so to get two goals is unbelievable for my confidence right now,” Shaffelburg told reporters. He expressed trust in his teammates, noting their strong practice performances.
While previous wins of 6-0 against Qatar and Honduras at the 2026 FIFA World Cup highlighted Canada’s strength, Saturday's match further emphasized their dominance. Alongside Shaffelburg, players like Liam Millar and Jonathan David contributed to the team’s offensive threats, while the defense effectively stifled Peru’s advances.
Head coach Jesse Marsch commented, “We walk away feeling like we should score multiple goals, because the identity and the clarity and the talent on the pitch are at a high level.”
The game also served as an opportunity for emerging talent, with several players who have fewer than ten caps participating, including 18-year-old Richard Chukwu and 22-year-old goalkeeper Owen Goodman, who earned his first clean sheet.
On a poignant note, Samuel Piette, a CF Montréal and national team legend, likely played his final match for Canada, receiving the captain's armband amid a celebration for his contributions. Despite this ceremonial farewell, he emphasized that he is not retiring from the national team.
Canada will face a critical test against the US men’s national team on October 6 at Allianz Stadium in Minnesota. After a recent win where they struggled to generate chances against Chile, Canada's performance against Peru—evident with 17 shots—demonstrated their improvement. Marsch acknowledged the upcoming challenge, saying that while the US boasts quality and athleticism, Canada is confident in its ability to control games and secure victories.